Crowdfunding is the use of a web-based platform to collect donations. The platform is generally managed by a third party provider and each individual fundraising campaign has a page on the site.
Campaigns usually run for a set period of time. The fundraiser will often choose a deadline for reaching a fundraising goal. At the end of that time, the funds raised, minus a fee paid to the provider, are passed to the fundraiser.
There are different ways that crowdfunding platforms can pass funds to fundraisers. Some platforms may let you withdraw funds while your campaign is still running. Other platforms will only transfer funds to you once your campaign has ended.
If you are collecting donations by crowdfunding, you must comply with the law on donations. Donation laws apply the day after you officially become a candidate. This is known as the regulated period. You can find more information about the regulated period on When do you officially become a candidate?